Senior home safety checklist

Tuesday

Jan 7, 2014 at 4:22 PMJan 7, 2014 at 4:22 PM

Q: I am going to visit my dad, and I would like to know what kinds of home safety things I should look for?A: Look at the outlets and the electrical cords and replace anything that looks cracked or frayed. Are there extension cords at the outlets and can they be reduced or consolidated? Consider tacking them down for safety. Consider replacing light bulbs to a brighter one if your father has any eyesight problems. Check out the carpets; are they in good shape or are there areas where it is thin down to the padding? Look at all scatter rugs and check that they do not move easily. They may need to be secured to the floor, but it is best to remove all scatter rugs. Look at the telephone, microwave and other appliances. Are they within easy reach? If your father is bending down or reaching too high he could lose his balance and fall. If there are stairs, are the handrails sturdy and in good shape? Many seniors hold tightly onto the handrails, and they need to be very secure and on both sides of the stairs. Is there a fire extinguisher in the house? Check the date of expiration. Is there a built-in grab bar in the shower? Some grab bars are held by suction, which we do not recommend; the suction can loosen at any time, which could cause a fall. Check the water heater temperature setting and make sure that the water is not scalding hot which could cause burns. Look at the furniture layout for room to move around. If your father should need a walker. is there adequate walking space to get around the home? Are there adequate nightlights in the bathroom, is the telephone close to the bed, and are there emergency contact telephone numbers with a list of medications and allergies on the refrigerator? EMTs are trained to go directly to the refrigerator to look for important information.Q: My mother has decided the house she currently lives in is too big. She would like to downsize to either an apartment or condominium. She is unable to sort, throw away, clean, pack this house and organize all the tasks needed to move. Is there anyone I can call to assist my mother?A: Yes there are move managers who can take on the tasks of organization. First, they would meet with your mother and with you, take a tour of the house and prepare a plan. The move manager should put in writing their responsibilities and the cost. The move managers are experts at details, can coordinate with the utility companies, can assist with purchasing any new items and oversee the entire move from start to finish. To find a move manager in your local area, contact the National Association of Senior Move Managers at www.nasmm.org or call 877-606-2766. You should be able to find a move manager in your local area.Debbie Gitner, LCSW, C-SWCM is Vice President of the New England Chapter of Geriatric Care Managers. Linda Sullivan Nurse and Care Manager Certified, RN, CMC. Together they are owners of ElderCare Resource Services helping families navigate resources for seniors. Contact them at 508-879-7008; toll free at 866-280-2308; fax 508-405-0963; www.eldercareresourceservices.com.

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